# Bautista returns, Helsley out for Orioles

> Orioles activate Félix Bautista after rehab, shut down Ryan Helsley for season
- Title: Bautista returns, Helsley out for Orioles · The Banner
- Summary: Orioles activate Félix Bautista after rehab, shut down Ryan Helsley for season Bautista returns to Orioles after injury, Helsley not re-signed for 2026 season
- Keywords: felix bautista, ryan helsley, orioles, mlb, baltimore, nfl, injured list, news, local, Bautista, returns, Helsley
- Source: The Banner — https://thebanner.com/sports/orioles-mlb/felix-bautista-returns-ryan-helsley-shut-down-ZYYLHV4QMZBGLFRC3FW5UQ4OCA
- Author: Andy Kostka
- Published: 2026-09-19T17:42:43.259+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: felix bautista, ryan helsley, orioles, mlb, baltimore, nfl, injured list, news, local
## Bautista activated
Orioles activated right-hander Félix Bautista off injured list after rehab.

> He's as close to full go as he could be
## Helsley shut down
Ryan Helsley won't return for 2026 season after Orioles decide against re-signing him.
## Bautista's injury
Bautista had Tommy John surgery in late 2023 and missed all of 2024.
## Helsley's status
Helsley has a $14 million player option for 2027 but Orioles won't exercise it.
## Bautista's rehab
Bautista pitched 34 2/3 innings in 2025 before injury and rehabbed in 2026.
## O'neill injured
Outfielder Tyler O'Neill, dealing with shoulder inflammation, is placed on 60-day injured list.
## Kjerstad's status
Heston Kjerstad, a new dad, hit 4-for-19 with nine strikeouts in recent games.
## Key takeaway

Bautista returns to Orioles after injury, Helsley not re-signed for 2026 season